Method of regulating operations on a railroad track

ABSTRACT

A system and device for communicating information to a train crew of a train is presented. The system links signals along the track directly to assorted operations centers for the transmission of customizable messages. The signal includes a plurality of light emitting diodes within a single flat screen. Information related to any of the following may be presented: wayside coloring patterns, track ownership, mileage indicators, radio communication information, track information, and a general message center. The screen is adjustable in its viewing patterns and may selectively adjust depending on the type of train approaching, the speed of approach, and current conditions.

BACKGROUND

1. Field of the Invention

The present application relates to a device and method coordinatingoperations on a railroad track, and more particularly to a digitalsignaling device for communicating to train crews about railroadconditions and operational requirements.

2. Description of Related Art

The railroad industry utilizes a number of signals to direct right ofway and traffic conditions on the track. These can tell an engineer whento stop the train, when to proceed, and give an indication of upcomingconditions. Currently, wayside signals are used to convey thisinformation to the train crew. These signals contain one or twolights/lamps of different colors to communicate with the train crew. Oneis typically located at junctions, interlockers, and other zones.

Limitations of traditional signals are that they are extremely limitedin the information they can convey and environmental conditions makethem difficult to decipher in real time. Any failure to adequatelyconvey information to the train crew can lead to potentially harmful anddeadly consequences.

Traditional signals are usually limited to one or two lamps thatilluminate a particular color. Each color has a meaning. The pattern ofcolors illuminated when used with a plurality of lamps also has aparticular meaning. However, this information is only a small amount ofwhat information a train crew needs to know. Typically, an engineeroperating a train has to visually identify and observe approachingsignals. While operating the train, the engineer is required to takeselected actions at specific locations. For example, a train crew is tocontact the track owner upon entering their track. To do this the traincrew needs to know where they are, determine the current track they areon, and ascertain the actual owner. Usually train crews are required tosort through miscellaneous notes and manuals to find any of thisinformation. This is time consuming and prone to errors with deadlyconsequences.

Additionally, the environmental conditions make the signals difficult todecipher. Weather conditions make visualizing small lamps difficult attimes. Depending on the approaching speed of the train, a very smallwindow is available for the train crew to recognize the signal. Anadditional difficulty is differentiating railroad signals from trafficlights in city limits. Additionally, it is not uncommon for multiplejunctions and interlockers to be found immediately one after the otheron the track. Each one typically has a signal. Because each is on aseparate track, each may have a different signal reading. When bunchedtogether, train crews can struggle to know which signal pertains towhich track.

Although some strides have been with respect to railroad communicationsignals, considerable shortcomings remain. A new system and device forcommunicating to train crews important information is needed.

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The novel features believed characteristic of the application are setforth in the appended claims. However, the application itself, as wellas a preferred mode of use, and further objectives and advantagesthereof, will best be understood by reference to the following detaileddescription when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings,wherein:

FIG. 1 is a chart of the interrelationship of a railroad signal systemaccording to the preferred embodiment of the present application.

FIG. 2 is a front view of a signal in the railroad signal system of FIG.1.

FIG. 3 is an exemplary schematic of the signal of FIG. 2.

FIGS. 4 and 5 are alternative front views of the signal of FIG. 2.

While the system and method of the present application is susceptible tovarious modifications and alternative forms, specific embodimentsthereof have been shown by way of example in the drawings and are hereindescribed in detail. It should be understood, however, that thedescription herein of specific embodiments is not intended to limit theapplication to the particular embodiment disclosed, but on the contrary,the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, andalternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the process of thepresent application as defined by the appended claims.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

Illustrative embodiments of the preferred embodiment are describedbelow. In the interest of clarity, not all features of an actualimplementation are described in this specification. It will of course beappreciated that in the development of any such actual embodiment,numerous implementation-specific decisions must be made to achieve thedeveloper's specific goals, such as compliance with system-related andbusiness-related constraints, which will vary from one implementation toanother. Moreover, it will be appreciated that such a development effortmight be complex and time-consuming but would nevertheless be a routineundertaking for those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit ofthis disclosure.

In the specification, reference may be made to the spatial relationshipsbetween various components and to the spatial orientation of variousaspects of components as the devices are depicted in the attacheddrawings. However, as will be recognized by those skilled in the artafter a complete reading of the present application, the devices,members, apparatuses, etc. described herein may be positioned in anydesired orientation. Thus, the use of terms to describe a spatialrelationship between various components or to describe the spatialorientation of aspects of such components should be understood todescribe a relative relationship between the components or a spatialorientation of aspects of such components, respectively, as the devicedescribed herein may be oriented in any desired direction.

The system and method in accordance with the present applicationovercomes one or more of the above-discussed problems commonlyassociated with conventional railroad signals. In particular, the systemis configured to engage communication between the track operator and thetrain via one or more operations centers and track sensors. The level ofdetail in the information communicated to conductors will increase. Thiswill lead to increased productivity and time savings. The system usessignals that are larger in size and more easily readable from distance.This along with the ability to notate track and location informationhelp to alleviate issues in congested areas and from other environmentalconditions. Operations centers will be able to convey real-timeinformation to the train crew via one or more message displays. It is anobject of the present application that the signals herein described areconfigured to notify the train crew of all necessary information inorder to operate the railways safely without having to look up tables,maps, and notes. These and other unique features of the device arediscussed below and illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

The system and method will be understood, both as to its structure andoperation, from the accompanying drawings, taken in conjunction with theaccompanying description. Several embodiments of the system may bepresented herein. It should be understood that various components,parts, and features of the different embodiments may be combinedtogether and/or interchanged with one another, all of which are withinthe scope of the present application, even though not all variations andparticular embodiments are shown in the drawings. It should also beunderstood that the mixing and matching of features, elements, and/orfunctions between various embodiments is expressly contemplated hereinso that one of ordinary skill in the art would appreciate from thisdisclosure that the features, elements, and/or functions of oneembodiment may be incorporated into another embodiment as appropriate,unless otherwise described.

The system and method of the present application is illustrated in theassociated drawings. The system includes an improved signal composed ofa plurality of light emitting diodes (i.e. LEDs) housed in a housing.The LEDs are operated via known control modules and programs to produceone or more visible light patterns. The signal is configured as anindividual screen allowing it to be customized with the particularinformation necessary to display. As a system the operations centers arein communication with the signals along the track and able to adjust theinformation displayed to the train crew. The system also incorporatesthe use of existing track sensors to relay information to the operationscenters and the train crews. The signals will be described in moredetail below.

Referring now to the drawings wherein like reference characters identifycorresponding or similar elements in form and function throughout theseveral views. FIG. 1 illustrates a chart of the interrelationship of arailroad signal system 101 according to the preferred embodiment of thepresent application. System 101 is configured to network together thetrain crew with various operations centers. Information is madeavailable to the train crew through signals 103 as seen in FIGS. 2 and4-5. It is understood that signals 103 may be located in areas withlittle or no connectivity to an operation center. In such situations,signals 103 may also be standalone units operable outside of the wholesignal network.

FIG. 2 is a front view of a signal 103 in railroad signal system 101 ofthe present application. Signal 103 are configured to be mounted andsecured in place of existing wayside signals along the railroad tracks.Signal 103 is configured to generate the same signals as existingwayside signals while incorporating methods of conveying more detailedinformation. It is understood that signal 103 is ideally suited toreplace outdated existing wayside signals.

Signal 103 includes a screen 105 located within a housing 104. Screen105 is an electronic flat panel display incorporating a plurality oflight emitting diodes (LEDs). The resolution of screen 105 may beselected by the end user. Any number of LEDs may be used together forthe display of information. Signal 103 is powered through existing powersupplies, such as powered cables and also even solar panels.

Signal 103 is configured to be in communication with the operationscenters and track sensors to create a network for the capturing andprocessing of real-time information to the train crew. The informationreceived from the operations centers is received and processed withinsignal 103. Once processed, the information is displayed on screen 105.Referring now in particular to FIG. 3 in the drawings, an exemplaryschematic of signal 103 is illustrated. FIG. 3 is an exemplaryconfiguration and design for signal 103 to allow it to interact with andprocess information between itself and at least one of the operationscenters and the track sensors. Standalone signals outside of the networkof system 101 may still be configured to process information. Anyinformation received and transmitted may be done via wired or wirelesscommunications.

The signal 103 includes an input/output (I/O) interface 12, a processor14, a database 16, and a maintenance interface 18. Alternativeembodiments can combine or distribute the input/output (I/O) interface12, processor 14, database 16, and maintenance interface 18 as desired.Embodiments of signal 103 can include a network of one or more computersthat include one or more processors and memories configured forperforming tasks described herein below. This can include, for example,a computer having a central processing unit (CPU) and non-volatilememory that stores software instructions for instructing the CPU toperform at least some of the tasks described herein. This can alsoinclude, for example, two or more computers that are in communicationvia a computer network, where one or more of the computers includes aCPU and non-volatile memory, and one or more of the computer'snon-volatile memory stores software instructions for instructing any ofthe CPU(s) to perform any of the tasks described herein. Thus, while theexemplary embodiment is described in terms of a discrete machine, itshould be appreciated that this description is non-limiting, and thatthe present description applies equally to numerous other arrangementsinvolving one or more machines performing tasks distributed in any wayamong the one or more machines. It should also be appreciated thatcomputers and machines may use transitory and non-transitory forms ofcomputer-readable media. Non-transitory computer-readable media is to beinterpreted to comprise all computer-readable media, with the soleexception of being a transitory, propagating signal.

The I/O interface 12 provides a communication link between externalusers, systems, and data sources and components of signal 103. The I/Ointerface 12 can be configured for allowing one or more users to inputinformation to signal 103 via any known input device, such as systems atoperations centers. Examples can include a keyboards, mouse, touchscreen, microphone, and/or any other desired input device. The I/Ointerface 12 can be configured for allowing one or more users to receiveinformation output from signal 103 via any known output device. Examplescan include a screen 105, a printer, a speaker, and/or any other desiredoutput device. The I/O interface 12 can be configured for allowing othersystems or applications to communicate with signal 103. For example, theI/O interface 12 can allow one or more remote computers to accessinformation, input information, and/or remotely instruct signal 103 toperform one or more of the tasks described herein. The I/O interface 12can be configured for allowing communication with one or more remotedata sources.

The database 16 provides persistent data storage for signal 103. Whilethe term “database” is primarily used, a memory or other suitable datastorage arrangement may provide the functionality of the database 16. Inalternative embodiments, the database 16 can be integral to or separatefrom signal 103 and can operate on one or more computers or computerizedelectronic devices. The database 16 preferably provides non-volatiledata storage for any information suitable to support the operation ofsignal 103. Database 16 stores information related to the track at theparticular location, such as the track owner, radio communicationinformation, and mile marker location for example

The maintenance interface 18 is configured to allow users to maintaindesired operation of signal 103. In some embodiments, the maintenanceinterface 18 can be configured to allow for reviewing and/or revisingthe data stored in the database 16 and/or performing any suitableadministrative tasks commonly associated with database management. Thiscan include, for example, updating database management software,revising security settings, and/or performing data backup operations. Insome embodiments, the maintenance interface 18 can be configured toallow for maintenance of processor 14 and/or the I/O interface 12. Thiscan include, for example, software updates and/or administrative taskssuch as security management and/or adjustment of certain tolerancesettings.

The processor 14 is configured to coordinate the capture and display ofinformation shared and viewed in system 101. Processor 14 may access andcompare information stored on database 16 for producing suchinformation. Processor 14 can include various combinations of one ormore processors, memories, and software components.

Referring now back to FIG. 2 in the drawings. Screen 105 is configuredto display pertinent train crew information in any number of ways.Screen 105 is configured to display sections of information to the traincrew that allows him/her to determine upcoming track conditions,identify its current location, and communicate with the appropriatetrack owner. To do this, screen 105 displays at least a coloredindicator section 107, a radio communication section 109 and a messagesection 111.

Colored indicator section 107 is configured to operate in a similarmanner to that of conventional wayside signals. One or more groupings ofcolored areas are aligned within section 107 to simulate traditionallamps of the wayside signal. Various signals are possible. For example,a red colored area located above a green colored area can tell the traincrew that a turn is ahead. A single red color tells the train crew tostop and a single green color tells the train crew it is safe toproceed. An additional feature of section 107 is that the allowed turnspeed and the direction of the track ahead may also be displayed. Thiscan be within section 107 or on a different part of screen 105. Forexample, a direction arrow pointing upward and to the left within agreen colored area may be shown below a red colored area. Otherdirectional messages may be provided to the train crew within indicator107.

Radio communication section 109 is configured to notify the conductorregarding the way to reach the track owner. Train crews must contacttrack owners upon entry onto their track in a similar manner to airlinepilots traversing through different airspaces. Signal 103 is configuredto provide the contact information for the track owner or dispatcher onscreen 105. For example, the channel may be displayed (i.e. CH 82) andthe tone may also be displayed (i.e. Tone 100).

Screen 105 may also be configured to display a track identifier 113.Track identifier 113 is a notification to the train crew of theparticular track that the train is traveling on (i.e. main track orsiding track). For example, MT1 could tell the train crew he is on MainTrack 1. Additionally, screen 105 may further display a mileageindicator 115. Track ownership and speed regulations can be dependentupon the location of the train. At night it can be difficult to seemileage signs. Signal 103 is configured to illuminate the mileage markerfor the train crew. Furthermore, signal 103 is also optionallyconfigured to display the track owner name and SUB in which the train istraveling (see 117).

Message center 111 is configured to receive and display assortedmessages pertinent to the train crew. These messages can be transmittedfrom the operations centers, a dispatcher, or be generated by signalsreceived through one or more track sensors as the train moves along thetrack. For example, if a train proceeds along the wrong track, anemergency warning may be issued in message center 111 notifying thetrain crew and possibly providing necessary correcting actions.Additionally, colored indicators and/or textual or graphical indicia maybe displayed. Colors used in message center 111 may be any of thefollowing: green or flashing green (clear), yellow or flashing yellow(approach), red or flashing red (stop), white or flashing white(restricting), and blue (emergency). Other colors may be used.

FIGS. 4 and 5 are alternative front views of screen 105. As stated,screen 105 is configured to selectively display any one or more sectionsor types of information as described above. It is understood that signal103 is not herein limited to a stagnant configuration. Signal 103 isconfigured to selectively add and/or remove any sections or displays ofinformation previously described. This may occur depending onenvironmental conditions, times of the year, emergencies, and so forth.Along this same idea, screen 105 is configured to optionally alternatethe visual display of information as the train crew approaches. Forexample, screen 105 may alternate between indicator section 107 andmessage center 111.

FIG. 4 illustrates indicator 107 filling out screen 105. As describedpreviously, indicator 107 may include a single colored section ormultiple sections (FIG. 4). The upper section is typically red while thelower section alternates between one or more different colorcombinations. For example, the lower section may display the colorswhite, yellow and green, both statically and in a flashing manner. Thesecolors in combination with the red in the upper section communicate aparticular message to the train crew. The color combinations may vary.When only one color is shown in indicator 107, any of the followingcolors may be used: red, yellow, green white, and blue, each staticallyor flashing.

As a train approaches signal 103, and in particular screen 105, mayalternate between indicator 107 and message center 111. As a digitalsign, signal 103 is truly unlimited in its customizable display ofinformation. Message center 111 is shown in FIG. 5 as consuming theentire screen 105.

Many advantages above and beyond that of the existing signals areapparent upon a review of the present system and signal. Environmentalconditions are less of a concern due to the breadth of informationrelayable via screen 105. The size of signal 103 is also key toeliminating concern over environmental conditions. Screen 105 may bedimensioned as necessary but an exemplary size is four feet by two feet.Location information along with track information help the train crewnavigate junctions with greater ease. The message center is able toprovide customized messages. Additionally, train crews are able to spendmore time controlling train operations than researching and sortingthrough manuals or notes trying to find correct information.

The current application has many advantages over the prior art includingat least the following: (1) greater communication to the train crewregarding present conditions; (2) increased safety; (3) customizabledisplays; and (4) networked system connecting the train crew to theoperations centers.

The particular embodiments disclosed above are illustrative only, as theapplication may be modified and practiced in different but equivalentmanners apparent to those skilled in the art having the benefit of theteachings herein. It is therefore evident that the particularembodiments disclosed above may be altered or modified, and all suchvariations are considered within the scope and spirit of theapplication. Accordingly, the protection sought herein is as set forthin the description. It is apparent that an application with significantadvantages has been described and illustrated. Although the presentapplication is shown in a limited number of forms, it is not limited tojust these forms, but is amenable to various changes and modificationswithout departing from the spirit thereof.

What is claimed is:
 1. A signal for use along a railroad track to conveyinformation to a train crew, comprising: a screen having a plurality oflight emitting diodes configured to selectively illuminate, the screenbeing partitioned into one or more sections for the conveying ofassorted information, including: a colored indicator section configuredto display selected patterns of color; a radio communication sectionconfigured to notify the train crew regarding how to reach a trackowner; and a message center configured to receive and display assortedmessages pertinent to the train crew.
 2. The signal of claim 1, whereinthe messages received by the message center are transmitted from atleast one of the operations center and dispatcher.
 3. The signal ofclaim 1, wherein the radio communication section is configured todisplay the radio channel of at least one of the track owner anddispatcher.
 4. The signal of claim 1, wherein the radio communicationsection is configured to display the tone used to reach at least one ofthe track owner and dispatcher.
 5. The signal of claim 1, wherein thecolored indicator section is configured to display one solid color. 6.The signal of claim 1, wherein the colored indicator section isconfigured to display two selected groupings of colors.
 7. The signal ofclaim 1, further comprising: a track identifier to identify theparticular track being traveled on.
 8. The signal of claim 1, furthercomprising: a mileage indicator to locate the train crew on a particulartrack.
 9. The signal of claim 1, wherein the signal provides a traincrew with the name of the track owner to contact.
 10. The signal ofclaim 1, wherein the signal provides the train crew location informationand communication information for reaching the track owner.
 11. Thesignal of claim 1, wherein the signal is configured to add and removeany of the sections temporarily.
 12. The signal of claim 1, wherein thesignal is configured to alternate the visual display of information asthe train crew approaches in a train.
 13. The signal of claim 1, whereinthe housing has a viewable screen dimension of at least four feet by twofeet.
 14. The signal of claim 1, wherein the colored indicator sectiondisplays at least one of the direction and the speed to the train crew.15. The signal of claim 1, wherein the colored indicator section has arectangular shape having a length to width dimension of 1 foot to 2feet.
 16. The signal of claim 1, wherein the colored indicator sectionis configured to flash different colored lights having multiple colorsfrom the group of: green, yellow, red, white and blue.
 17. The signal ofclaim 1, wherein the track identified by the track identifiercorresponds to at least of the main track and a siding track.